Top 5 College Football Players to Watch This Season

You love a good list, and we’re here to give you something exciting. And with the 2024 college football season over the midway point, we’ve seen some great performances and players on the field. So, who are the top players to watch for the rest of the season?

#1. Travis Hunter

Arguably one of the most exciting players to watch this season, Travis Hunter’s versatility and sheer athletic prowess combined make him a joy to watch.

Hunter is a standout at Colorado after his first season at Jackson State. Playing both wide receiver and defensive back, he is a dual threat as a junior, a rarity on the gridiron.

He’s thrived under the guidance of coach Deion Sanders, who has put him in various roles to show his ability.

But Hunter’s performance didn’t waver after missing games with a lacerated liver, culminating in the Paul Hornung Award, as versatile as they come, and All-American first-team honors.

#2. Dillon Gabriel

Dillon Gabriel, currently leading the Oregon Ducks, represents a dynamic quarterback with a rich background and a journey that crosses several prominent college football programs.

Born in Mililani, Hawaii, Gabriel started his career at the University of Central Florida (UCF) before transferring to Oklahoma, succeeding Caleb Williams in 2022. After two successful years with the Sooners, he made a pivotal move to Eugene, stepping into the role vacated by Bo Nix.

Known for his precise left-handed throws, Gabriel will be steering the Ducks into the Big Ten—a significant shift for the team.

Gabriel’s extensive experience in college football—he’s in his sixth year—positions him well to handle these pressures. As he inches closer to breaking all-time records for career touchdown passes and passing yards, his seasoned composure could earn him substantial recognition in the Heisman race.

FanDuel college football currently gives him +3600 odds to win the Heisman Trophy. He has the second-best odds in the nation behind Travis Hunter. I think this is a very good spot to sprinkle a few dollars on Gabriel.

#3. Carson Beck

Since taking over from the Georgia Bulldogs’ Stetson Bennett, standout quarterback Carson Beck has made his mark. Beck’s performance in the 2023 season is why he is one of the most talked about players.

As a redshirt senior, he brings not only skill but considerable experience to the field, having led Georgia through an exceptional season last year. But Beck became known across the country as a man who was precise, calm, and completed an eye-popping 72.4% of his passes. His poise under pressure and ability to make big plays have put him at the top of the Heisman race as a contender.

It will be exciting spectacles this season against other top-tier quarterbacks as they could pave the way for another national championship for Georgia.

#4. Caleb Downs

Caleb Downs has rapidly become a name to know in college football, building upon his family’s rich legacy in the sport. With his roots in Hoschton, Georgia, Caleb’s journey from Alabama to Ohio State marks a significant chapter in his burgeoning career.

A sophomore safety, Caleb stands out with his incredible tackling prowess and strategic insight on the field. As the son of Gary Downs, a former NFL running back and brother to Colts’ receiver Josh Downs, football is in Caleb’s blood. His uncle, Dre Bly, adds further prestige with his history as an NFL All-American defensive back.

Caleb’s freshman year at Alabama was nothing short of remarkable—leading the Crimson Tide in tackles and earning SEC Freshman of the Year honors.

Now part of Ohio State’s formidable defense under Jim Knowles’ guidance, Caleb brings his dynamic edge, making the Buckeyes a formidable force against offensive lines this season.

#5. Ollie Gordon II

Ollie Gordon II, a junior running back for Oklahoma State, has undoubtedly earned his place among the top athletes to watch this season.

Born in Fort Worth, Texas, Gordon has shown exceptional talent and determination on the field. His influence became profoundly apparent during the conference opener at Iowa State, where he seized the role of the primary ball carrier for the Cowboys.

From that game onward, Gordon dazzled with his ability to consistently break through defenses, achieving nine 100-yard games out of eleven. Notably, his incredible performance peaked in a two-game span where he amassed 553 yards, with unforgettable displays against West Virginia and Cincinnati.

His 282 yards against West Virginia were the highlight of the FBS last season—a testament to his strength and skill.

As the winner of the 2023 Doak Walker Award, Gordon’s prowess makes Oklahoma State’s offensive line a fearsome force, priming him for a possible 2,000-yard season.